Once again I find that the Eagles have had a solid draft. I always enjoy watching the drama of the draft unfold live, even though at times it can be a drag stopping up until 4:30 am. This year for my beloved Philadelphia Eagles, they have a new Head Coach, Chip Kelly, bringing some dynamic changes to the league from his tenure as Head Coach at the University of Oregon. Exciting time for an Eagles fan for sure.
The Eagles draft picks were solid for what is Chip is bringing to the team. A new fast paced, high tempo game is on the cards, and these draft picks certainly look to have the right athletic credentials. I can’t wait to see things unfold through the rest of the off-season and into the regular season proper in September. Whoop 🙂
For me however, one intriguing angle of this years draft is the presence of a British connection for two of the players in the draft. Namely:
Menelik Watson, who was born in Manchester and came to the NFL draft after a stint in athletics, football, basketball and then American Football. Menelik was drafted by the Oakland Raiders with the 42nd pick overall. Read his Draft Profile | Combine Workout Video
Lawrence Okoye, the British Olympian who threw the Discus for Britain in the London Olympics, was also available in the draft. However, he missed out on being picked in the 7 rounds of the draft. The great news is that the San Francisco 49ers have signed the undrafted free agent. Having never played the game the he impressed the 49ers enough. It remains a long road ahead for him to make the team, but watching his story develop will be fascinating. Read his Draft Profile | Draft Interview Video
Way to go to both Menelik and Lawrence. Rule Britania. Special thing can happen. Whoop whoop.